President Ruto Unveils Improved Pay, Housing, and Healthcare for Kenya Prison Officers

President William Ruto has announced a series of measures aimed at improving the welfare of Kenya Prison Service officers, addressing years of neglect in the sector.

Speaking through Deputy President Kithure Kindiki during the 27th Passing-Out Parade at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru, Kiambu County, the President highlighted significant salary increments that have been implemented in phases.

• Entry-level prison constables saw their pay rise by over 36% following Phases I and II of salary reviews.
• The highest salary scale increased by approximately 24%.
• Phase III salary adjustments took effect on 1 July 2026, reinforcing the government's commitment to correctional officers' welfare.

In addition to pay improvements, President Ruto noted the inclusion of prison officers under the Usalama Cover by the Social Health Authority (SHA), ensuring better healthcare access. The newly opened 150-bed Wanini Kireri Magereza Level IV Referral Hospital, located at the Prisons Staff Training College, will serve officers, their families, inmates, and local communities.

Housing also forms a key part of the welfare boost, with plans for 28,000 affordable housing units, including 9,000 through public-private partnerships, earmarked for the Kenya Prisons Service.

To enhance operational capacity, the service's vehicle fleet has been expanded with 41 new vehicles under Phase VII of the Government Motor Vehicle Leasing Programme, with further investments planned in electric vehicles.

President Ruto urged the Prisons Service to embrace modern technologies to effectively counter evolving challenges such as radicalisation, organised crime, cybercrime, and trafficking. He emphasised that modernisation is essential for the service to remain effective and reliable.

He further called on officers to maintain high standards of professionalism and integrity, highlighting the importance of balancing firmness with respect for human dignity.